THE PREMIER'S DEFEAT.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 6044, 28 September 1887, Page 3

THE PREMIER'S DEFEAT.

. «, . . fPsa Press Association.] ; ' ' DTJNEDIN; Bept.26. Sir Robert Stout had the offer of ali least five Beats to-day, bat he adheres to his determination not to enter public life again. Dr Fitchett addressed- to him the following letter, and received- the- accoinpanjing reply :— " Dunedin, -Sept. 27. "My dear Sir Eobert, — The pleasure and the worth of my own victory is nearly darkened by your defeat. I said at the hustings that I would rather | lose my own election than sco you lose yours. This morning I conferred i with some of my principal supporters, and ! suggested that I Bhould offer to resign in [your favour. They heartily concurred, feeling-, aa I do, that your absence from che House in the present jjmctune of affairs is nothing leaa than; a Colonial calamity. 1 am satisfiedthat tho.xjlectoxs of Dunedin Central will cordially, approy.o of my action, and that if you accept, my offer you will be returned "without opposition. The country ! can well spare me, butcannot spare you.— i lam, &c, i " Fred. Fitchett." ! " Hon Sir. Eobert Stout." | " Dunedin, Sept. 27. ! "My Dear Fitchett,— How can I adequately express my thanks to you and others who have kindly offered to resign in my favour? I can assure you I shall never forget it so long as memory endures. I have, however, resolved not to ! accept any seat. You are young, and just entering the political arena, and you must be careful of your future. If I can assist ! you in any way, do not fail to ask me. No, you; must not think of resigning. I cannot accept any such offer, but the. fact that such was made shall be treasured by yours very truly, [ "Bobeet Stout." A number of gentlemen assembled in the Chamber of Commerce in the afternoon, when a motion was carried— " That those present form themselves into a Committee,to proceed to get up a monster petition, asking Sir E. Stout to reconsider his decision."